Comparative Journeys: Essays on Literature and Religion East and West

In the book titled "Comparative Journeys: Essays on Literature and Religion East and West," written by Anthony C. Yu, the author explores a wide array of topics concerning the intersection of literature and religion in both Eastern and Western contexts. The table of contents showcases the diverse range of subjects covered in the book.

The book comprises sixteen essays, each delving into unique aspects of literature and religion.

Yu begins by analyzing tragic theology in "Prometheus Bound" and explores the concept of freedom and the image of God in "Paradise Lost." The implications for Christology in "Paradise Regained" are examined, offering fresh perspectives on religious themes in these Western literary masterpieces.

The book also delves into Chinese-Western literary relations and the narrative structure of "The Journey to the West," a timeless Chinese classic. By drawing parallels between "The Commedia" and "The Journey to the West," Yu illuminates the theme of religious pilgrimage in literature.

Further, Yu delves into the relationship between religion and literature in China, particularly focusing on "The Journey to the West" and its profound spiritual connotations.

The exploration of religious elements extends to "traditional Chinese prose fiction," where ghosts and spirits hold significance. Yu then shifts focus to philosophical discussions on names in both the Western work "Cratylus" and the Chinese classic "Xunzi."

Moreover, "Comparative Journeys" offers an insightful analysis of ethics, politics, and rhetoric in the "Daodejing," an ancient Chinese text.

The book also takes on a comparative view of liberal education, discusses the impact of religious reception in translation, and explores the relationship between Confucianism and the prospect of human rights.

Finally, Yu navigates the complex territory of China and human rights, examining the interplay between ancient values and modern realities.

The book's diverse scope and meticulous analysis make it an essential read for scholars and students interested in the interconnections between literature and religion, both in the East and the West.